Employees working closely in a small business can easily affect the performance and attitudes of their co-workers. As you grow your business, engage employees in helping establish goals, initiatives and processes to build a positive atmosphere. You’ll build a more productive work environment when you engage your staff in decision-making.

Keep Them Updated

Employees who feel positive about their jobs can offer you additional brain power, enthusiasm and support. Your staff feels engaged when you operate transparently and keep them abreast of what's happening in the business. As much as possible, let your staff know your company's financial situation, when you land a big contract, and how their work contributes to the success of the business. As a small business owner, it pays to develop a culture of transparency that can continue as you grow and expand.

Give Them Autonomy

The main reason people go to work is to earn a living. Still, most workers also look for some sort of fulfillment in their jobs – an avenue to make a difference and to feel worthwhile. Empowered employees who tap into their talent to solve problems, execute solutions and develop their skills tend to be more satisfied with their work than those who have no role in the decision-making process. Give employees the freedom and power to make and follow up on decisions without micromanaging them. This will help improve your employees’ attitudes toward their jobs. It also will free you up to do the countless other tasks on your plate as a small business owner.

Allow Flexibility

Employees who can plan their work schedules are more engaged in the results. Let your workers create their own schedules with deadlines based on the goals you’ve shared with them. Give employees the flexibility to work out their schedules so they can take care of family responsibilities, enjoy an active social life and pursue their hobbies. As a small business owner, you have the opportunity to create a results-oriented workplace since you don’t have to answer to a corporate hierarchy. Flexible scheduling is one way to improve employee retention, which means you won't need to spend a lot of time and resources continually replacing and training new employees.

Reward Success

Employees become more involved in successful outcomes when they know they will share in the rewards. In addition to paying a fair wage, establish incentives for creative ideas and efforts that lead to increased business. This will show employees that you appreciate them and recognize their involvement in your business. It also boosts morale and motivates your staff to continue a high level of productivity and creativity.

About the Author

Linda Ray is an award-winning journalist with more than 20 years reporting experience. She's covered business for newspapers and magazines, including the "Greenville News," "Success Magazine" and "American City Business Journals." Ray holds a journalism degree and teaches writing, career development and an FDIC course called "Money Smart."